That was then, and this is now. A little perspective as we start a new week.

In August of 2010, the City of Dallas was under fire from the community, and for good reason. A Dallas Animal Services manager was under indictment for animal cruelty for leaving a cat to die in a wall; two animal control officers were being investigated for cruelty to animals; the Humane Society of the United States was about to publish what was expected to be a scathing report on the operations at DAS; it was 100+ degrees outside, the new shelter’s air conditioning wasn’t working, the animals and staff were suffering; and morale was at an all time low.

But that was then and this is now. Since that time, things have changed. Compassion now defines what happens at the shelter, euthanasia rates are dropping, the old management is gone and a total reorganization is under way; new programs are being developed to reduce intake and increase live release rates; many of the recommendations contained in the HSUS report have been successfully implemented; a new manager has been hired who is experienced and well-respected in the animal welfare field, and who was instrumental in making Richmond, Virginia a no-kill community; the City of Dallas is committed to supporting the Animal Shelter Commission and has vowed to keep things moving forward; and the shelter staff has a whole new attitude and and morale is high.

Dallas Animal Services, thanks to the involvement of the City Council, the City Manager, and the community, has done an about-face like the animal welfare industry has never seen – all in a little over a year.

It makes sense then, that now is the time for the community to step up and do their part. Together we can create a no-kill community. Won’t you join us? We’re looking for individuals, businesses, corporations, associations, nonprofits, advocacy groups and animal-welfare organizations willing to be a part of this effort by lending their names and encouraging others to do the same. Just click on the appropriate tab at the top of the page, or email dallascompanionanimalproject@gmail.com for more information.

Related: Read “The Turn Around King”, the Dallas Police Department feature about the man who make compassion the “word of the day.”